POWERGRAMS

PROFILE Ride Like the Wind Employee blazes horse trails for state park F Reed or Jeff Reed, enjoying a peaceful horseback ride through the woods is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. It was his pursuit of that "perfect" day that prompted Reed to take on the job of blazing horseback trails at Wind Creek State Park near Alexander City five years ago. Reed had experience in designing and building trails. With few places to ride horses in the area, he proposed a plan to park management. "They really liked the idea and said it was a good time because they were looking for another source of revenue," said Reed, appliance serviceman, Alexander City. His first step was to explore the 1,445acre park around Lake Martin, looking for old trails that were overgrown and prime locations for new trails. "When putting in trails, I look for an area where there won't be too much erosion. I also make sure the trail doesn't disturb the surrounding natural resources or the wildlife living in the area," he said. "I try to make sure the trails follow the lay of the land and are just wide enough for hikers and horses to get through Reed's efforts have opened wooded trails for horse riders across the state. them," he said. After selecting the ideal spot for a assisted in clearing overgrown trails at Oak Mountain trail, Reed, often with help from friends, goes to work. State Park in 2009. Using power saws, pruners and handsaws, they trim Reed turned to trail design after his daughter back trees along the path and clear brush and debris graduated from high school, putting an end to his covering the ground. volunteer work as coach of her softball team. Since the project began, Reed has played a leading Building trails was a natural choice, said Reed, who role in laying out and building has ridden horses since childhood. Having ridden a 20-mile network of trails for throughout Alabama, Tennessee and North Georgia, he biking, hiking and horseback has learned the best way to lay out a trail and how to riding. As the result of his make it challenging for the rider, while continuing to efforts, Wind Creek has preserve the natural beauty of the area surrounding it. opened 16 campsites for "Somebody asked me one time how much I get visitors who want to bring paid," he said. "I get my pay when I see people smiling their horses to the park. and enjoying the trails." Reed's job at Wind Creek is far from complete. He spends By Carla Davis 10 to 20 hours a week at the park, removing trash from the trails, clearing away brush Reed engaged in and trimming trees. And he appliance repair. often serves as a trail guide for guests who are unfamiliar with the park. "Maintaining the trails is an every week ordeal," Reed said. "We're continuing to add new trails and improve old ones." Wind Creek Park Superintendent Jimmy Shivers said Reed's help has been invaluable. "Thanks to Jeff, our guests now have another reason to visit Wind Creek State Park, and the trails have meant more revenue for us," Shivers said. Wind Creek is not the only place where Reed has volunteered his services. He helped design and lay out trails in Russell Forest on Lake Martin six years ago. He PAGE 3

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